Designing Beautiful Lives: The Journey of Michael Rouse and MPR Architecture

Michael Rouse, owner and operator of MPR Architecture, began his journey to architectural excellence on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. This journey continued at the University of Maryland College Park, where he pursued both undergraduate and graduate studies. In 2015, Michael was at a crossroads in his life. “I was looking for the next big thing in my life and looking for an opportunity for growth as an architect and person,” Michael says. “Starting my own firm seemed to be the best way.” He took that opportunity, founded his own firm in his small studio apartment in Adams Morgan; MPR Architecture was born.
Ten years later, MPR Architecture is a small boutique firm of three, specializing in private home renovations, additions, and some small institutional and commercial work for select clients. The evolution from one-man band to boutique firm wasn’t the end of change for Michael. He’s traded his studio apartment for a home in 16th Street Heights, where he now resides with his husband Drew, and their three pets: chocolate lab Finnegan, puggle Oliver, and cat Holden.
MPR Architecture offers a comprehensive suite of services, from initial consultations and zoning analysis to feasibility studies, residential architectural design, and construction administration, amongst other services, all of which combine to create meaningful projects for their clients.They guide clients through every step of the process, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.
One of the key factors of MPR Architecture’s success is listening. “We pride ourselves in listening to our clients, their budgets and their existing homes,” Michael states. “We synthesize all the information from our attentive listening to create unique, functional projects for our clients.” Being invited into their client’s homes, into their lives, is something MPR Architecture takes very seriously. To them, working with clients to tailor their architecture to meet their needs is an honor; they take these feelings of pride and honor into every space.
This year, Michael Rouse and MPR Architecture will celebrate ten years of business. Michael says, “As we look towards the future, we look forward to working with more great clients, beautiful homes, and continuing to create wonderful spaces.” A journey that began with one man’s vision in a studio apartment has now become a firm that is changing the lives of its clients. By honoring every customer, every vision, and every space, Michael Rouse and MPR Architecture aren’t just designing beautiful homes; they’re designing beautiful lives through the art of architecture.